Matthew J. Finnell, Sr.

Matthew J. Finnell, Sr. , 88, of Springfield, died at 11:38 a.m. on Wednesday, November 11, 2009 at St. John's Hospital. Matthew was born October 6, 1921 in Pontiac, IL, the son of Matthew J. and Hazel M. Rice Finnell, Sr. He married Charlene Barry on June 13, 1953 in Odell, IL. Matthew was a veteran of the U.S. Navy serving from 1942 to 1946. He was stationed on the USS Sicily in the Pacific. He attended both the University of Illinois and Northwestern University and retired as the Chief Fiscal Officer for the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services after forty years. Matthew was a member of Church of the Little Flower where he belonged to the men's club. He enjoyed all sports, especially fishing, and belonged to the Anchor Boat Club. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Matthew J. Finnell, Jr.; and brother, Earl F. Finnell. He is survived by his wife of fifty-six years, Charlene Finnell of Springfield; daughter, Catherine A. (husband, Dale) Becker of Springfield; sons, Charles F. and John B. Finnell both of Springfield; four grandchildren, Sarah, Emily and Christine Becker and Jake Finnell; and several cousins. Family will receive friends from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 15, 2009 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Visitation will begin with a prayer service at 4:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, November 16, 2009 at Church of the Little Flower, 800 Stevenson Dr., Springfield. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Little Flower Catholic School, 900 Stevenson Drive, Springfield, IL 62703